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Artisans: Japan
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How Japanese denim heads perfected an American classic

Zahra Jamshed
Zahra Jamshed, CNN
5 minute read
Updated 5:20 AM EDT, Fri September 29, 2017
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Japanese denim manufacturers are hailed by enthusiasts around the world for their attention to detail and high-quality production. Here, a worker sand blasts denim by hand at a fabric mill in the Okayama area.
Japanese denim manufacturers are hailed by enthusiasts around the world for their attention to detail and high-quality production. Here, a worker sand blasts denim by hand at a fabric mill in the Okayama area.
Getty Images
Denim in Japan is often made on old and dated machinery to create an authentic vintage feel. <br /><br />"Denim makers brought back old fabric machines which were being phased out due to technology developments over the years," says Devin Leisher, the director of the denim documentary "Weaving Shibusa."
Denim in Japan is often made on old and dated machinery to create an authentic vintage feel.

"Denim makers brought back old fabric machines which were being phased out due to technology developments over the years," says Devin Leisher, the director of the denim documentary "Weaving Shibusa."
Chris McGrath/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images
As other denim factories around the world shift towards a mass-production model, mills in Japan still offer quality fabric, some of which are treated by hand. Here, an employee at an Okayama mill distresses denim by hand.
As other denim factories around the world shift towards a mass-production model, mills in Japan still offer quality fabric, some of which are treated by hand. Here, an employee at an Okayama mill distresses denim by hand.
Chris McGrath/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images
To improve fit and form, creases are shaved into the denim during production.
To improve fit and form, creases are shaved into the denim during production.
Chris McGrath/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images
Japanese denim brand Momotaro is widely regarded for its attention to detail. Momotaro's premium jeans (which uses a denim made on a wooden hand-loom) can sell for $2,000.
Japanese denim brand Momotaro is widely regarded for its attention to detail. Momotaro's premium jeans (which uses a denim made on a wooden hand-loom) can sell for $2,000.
Chris McGrath/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images